The African Action Congress (AAC) has criticised the December 7, 2025 gunmen assauls on residents in the Nawfia community in Njikoka LGA and on a church in Lilu, Ihiala LGA of Anambra State, describing the incidents as unacceptable and demanding swift intervention.
In a Tuesday press release, the party’s state Publicity Secretary, Anyanwu Chinedu, said the government must strengthen security reforms, improve community involvement, and boost economic opportunities to tackle the underlying factors driving insecurity.
Chinedu called on authorities to act decisively to safeguard lives and ensure those responsible are held accountable. He noted that recent findings show that armed groups have intensified their operations across rural and urban areas in the state.
The statement noted, “Insecurity in Anambra State has become a pressing concern, with kidnapping, banditry, cultism, and armed robbery on the rise. Communities such as Isseke, Umunze, Ogbunka, Nanka, and Awka have suffered increased attacks, leaving residents fearful of kidnappings and violence.
“We strongly condemn the recent surge in insecurity in Anambra State, including kidnappings, banditry, and armed robbery.
“The attacks on innocent civilians, such as the Nawfia community in Njikoka LGA that leaves several people dead on December 7, and an attack on a church in Lilu, Ihiala LGA, among many others, are unacceptable and we demand immediate attention.
“We urge the authorities to take decisive action to protect citizens and bring perpetrators to justice. The state government must prioritise security reforms, community engagement, and economic empowerment to address the root causes of insecurity.
“Our thoughts are with the victims and their families. We demand peace and safety for Anambra State residents.”
The party added that its findings reveal that suspected kidnappers have expanded their activities throughout both rural and urban communities. Residents interviewed expressed concern that kidnapping has become a “lucrative” enterprise due to the high ransoms frequently paid.
The statement further mentioned that some residents believe security operatives may be enabling or turning a blind eye to these criminals, who carry out attacks with ease.
PUNCH Online reported on Monday that the Anambra State Police Command confirmed the killing of four individuals in a violent attack near Afor Market Junction in Nawfia community. Police spokesperson SP Tochukwu Ikenga attributed the incident to a clash between rival cult groups, adding that the attackers, travelling in a black Lexus Jeep with an unidentified registration number, opened fire indiscriminately at the market.
The platform also reported that unidentified assailants attacked St. Andrews Anglican Church in Lilu, Ihiala LGA, killing two people — including the priest’s wife — and setting ablaze vehicles and the cleric’s residence.